India’s ‘Unwelcome Mat’ for Scholars: Tharoor Speaks Out

The recent expulsion of renowned Hindi scholar Francesca Orsini from Delhi has prompted a strong reaction from Shashi Tharoor, a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress. Tharoor has publicly criticized the government’s actions, suggesting that India needs to cultivate a more open and resilient national attitude. Orsini, an Italian academic and Professor Emerita at SOAS, was deported from Delhi Airport on October 21st, with authorities citing violations of her visa regulations. This incident has ignited debate, with Tharoor sharing and endorsing the views of former BJP MP Swapan Dasgupta. Dasgupta had cautioned against India creating an unwelcoming environment for foreign academics. Tharoor vehemently argued that expelling scholars over what he described as ‘trivial visa violations’ inflicts significant damage on India’s international credibility, cultural image, and overall standing. He called for a more robust national psyche, characterized by a ‘thicker skin, a broader mind and a bigger heart.’ Orsini, a notable scholar of Hindi literature, had reportedly been blacklisted in March. Her deportation has been widely condemned by academics and historians who believe it contradicts India’s image as an intellectually vibrant democracy. Government officials have defended the decision, stating it aligns with standard international practices for individuals found to be in contravention of visa terms and highlighting the importance of adhering to stated travel purposes.